The app looks a lot like Snapchat, Houseparty, and Facebook's Bonfire with a focus on playful face filters and group video chat. But unlike these incumbents, Messenger Kids puts parents in control, COPPA compliant so even children under 13 years old can participate.

Unsurprisingly, the app was met with mixed reactions. Cynics might criticize the app as solely a diabolical plan to incubate a new generation of Facebook addicts. Optimists see this as a way to empower kids to participate in our digital future, in a safe way. Regardless of your POV, this is a smart way for 14-year-old Facebook to bring a new generation of people into its ecosystem.